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This point, level with the Liver Shu, spreads Liver qi, benefits the Liver and supports the ethereal soul (hun).
Location
On the back, 3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9), level with BL-18.
Anatomy
On the latissimus dorsi; the posterior intercostal artery; the dorsal rami of the thoracic nerves.
Actions & Functions
- Spreads Liver qi and harmonises the middle burner
- Supports the ethereal soul (hun) and benefits the emotions
Indications
Hypochondriac pain and fullness of the chest, vomiting and diarrhoea, depression, and stiffness of the back.
Needling
0.5-0.7 cun, oblique insertion towards the spine.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion.
Point Combinations
With BL-18 and LV-3 for Liver disorders and emotional distress.
Classical Text References
The outer Back-Shu of the Liver, associated with the hun (ethereal soul).
Cautions & Contraindications
Deep insertion risks injury to underlying organs; needle obliquely.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.